Measuring range fresh water: 0,01 – 1,0 mg/l
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Seawater measuring range: 0,01 – 1,0 mg/l
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Resolution (accuracy): 0,02 mg/l
Phosphates are important nutrients in all plants and are irreplaceable for the energy metabolism of every living cell. Phosphates enter the aquarium water through food and the decomposition processes of organic matter. However, an uncontrolled increase in phosphate levels creates problems such as severe algae growth. In addition, phosphates in saltwater aquariums can make the excretion of calcium carbonate to build the limestone skeleton of hard corals and thus make their growth very difficult. On the other hand, if there is a high population of plants or corals and a low population of fish, phosphate can also become a deficiency element that must be added. In some reef aquariums, extremely nutrient-poor conditions are deliberately created - this can lead to phosphate deficiency situations.
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For fresh water, a value of up to 0,4 mg/l phosphate is appropriate, although 1 mg/l should not be exceeded. A concentration of 0,02 mg/l is already sufficient for the nutrient supply of aquatic plants. The phosphate content in natural seawater is around 0,06 mg/l. However, this value is significantly lower in the area of coral reefs; concentrations between 0,01 and 0,02 mg/l are found there.
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We generally recommend not allowing the concentration to rise above 0,1 mg/l in seawater tanks and, especially in reef aquariums, to keep it between 0,01 and 0,05 mg/l. In any case, the phosphate concentration of the aquarium water should be checked regularly.